The Mazda 3 II Hatchback (BL) 2.0 CD, produced from 2009 to 2011, represented a significant offering in the European compact car market. Positioned as a diesel-powered variant within the second generation (BL) Mazda 3 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, respectable performance, and practicality. This model year saw Mazda continuing to refine the platform introduced in 2008, focusing on improving the driving experience and broadening the appeal of the 3 to a wider range of buyers. The 2.0 CD variant, generating 150 horsepower, was a popular choice for drivers seeking lower running costs without sacrificing too much in terms of driving enjoyment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | II Hatchback (BL) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CD (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 258.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1800-2600 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2184 cm3 (133.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1360 l (48.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4460 mm (175.59 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2002 mm (78.82 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Mazda 3 2.0 CD was the Ford-PSA jointly developed 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. While branded as a Mazda engine, it shared its core architecture with units found in Peugeot and Citroën vehicles of the same era. Specifically, this engine typically carried the engine code DW10ATED4. This engine utilized a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosted power output and improved torque delivery. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good balance between fuel efficiency and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 CD engine delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.7-9.2 seconds, making it competitive within its class. While not a sports car, the engine offered a usable powerband, with peak torque available from 1800-2600 rpm. This meant that strong acceleration was readily available for overtaking maneuvers or merging onto highways. Compared to the higher-output 2.3-liter petrol variants, the 2.0 CD prioritized fuel economy and low-end torque over outright speed. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering precise shifts and allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CD variant of the Mazda 3 II Hatchback typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the Sport or Luxury models, added features like alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Mazda 3 II Hatchback featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during braking. The chassis was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda 3 2.0 CD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be slightly noisy compared to some of its competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered Mazda 3 variants, the 2.0 CD offered significantly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for drivers who covered high mileage. It also provided more torque, resulting in stronger acceleration at lower speeds. Against rivals like the Volkswagen Golf TDI and Ford Focus TDCi, the Mazda 3 2.0 CD offered a competitive package in terms of price, performance, and features.
Legacy
The Mazda 3 II 2.0 CD has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the DW10ATED4 engine generally considered durable. However, like all diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, these models continue to be sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient compact hatchback. Their reputation for reliability and practicality has helped them maintain a reasonable resale value.
